PERIOD DRAMA BRIDGERTON BREAKS NETFLIX RECORDS

Bridgerton has become Netflix's biggest series. The period drama, based on Julia Quinn's novels, debuted Dec. 25 and has since been watched by a record 82 million households around the world. That's six million more than those who checked out Netflix's former No. 1, The Witcher, in its first 28 days. Bridgerton, which has been renewed for a second season, topped the Netflix charts in 83 countries upon its release. Created by Chris Van Dusen and produced by Shonda Rhimes, the steamy series is set in Regency-era London. “(Bridgerton) isn't meant to be history,” said Jinny Howe, vice-president of original series at Netflix. “It's designed to be more lavish, sexier and funnier than the standard period drama — and that's what so surprised and delighted our members.”